Lacerda

Lacerda is a Portuguese surname. It is of toponymic origin, derived from a place name. The word "lacerda" itself refers to a place abounding in lizards, or a place where lizards are common.

The surname is found primarily in Portugal and Brazil, and is also present in other countries due to Portuguese colonization and migration.

Notable people with the surname Lacerda include:

• Maurício de Lacerda: A Brazilian journalist, politician, and intellectual.
• Carlos Lacerda: A prominent Brazilian journalist and politician who played a significant role in Brazilian politics during the mid-20th century.
• Francisco José de Lacerda e Melo: An 18th-century Portuguese explorer and scientist, known for his expeditions in Africa.

The surname Lacerda can also be found as part of compound surnames, combined with other Portuguese surnames. The heraldic history and associated family crests of the Lacerda family vary depending on the specific branch and region of origin. Researching specific lineages is necessary to determine individual family crests.